This Little-Known Trail Is Quite Possibly The Best Climbing Route In Washington
By Andrea Verschuyl|Published December 19, 2023
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Andrea Verschuyl
Author
Having grown up in Washington, Andrea is a self-admitted Pacific Northwest snob. In their opinion, there's simply nowhere else in the country with the Evergreen State's beauty. After attending university, Andrea devoted themselves to writing full-time. They're thrilled to represent Washington for Only In Your State while pursuing other professional and personal projects. They currently reside in Olympia, where they enjoy leaf-blowing their yard, perfecting homemade ramen, cuddling with their three tiny dogs, and feeding their pufferfish, Sea Biscuit.
Few states take their outdoor recreation as seriously as Washington. For many Evergreen State residents, a packed itinerary of hiking, skiing, snowshoeing, and more is a point of pride. But one sport in Washington is seeing unprecedented growth: climbing. If you want to test your skillset outside the gym, you should know about Peshastin Pinnacles State Park. This stunning spot may have some of the best climbing in Washington.
Don’t believe me? Pack your gear and check it out for yourself.
Climbing isn't an overnight sensation. This high-octane pastime has been growing for more than a decade. Still, the relatively recent popularization of bouldering has seen climbing gym memberships rise by up to ten percent.
Hobby initiates know that it's much more difficult to send a route outside than it is to reach an indoor climb's finishing hold. Peshastin Pinnacles State Park should be on your bucket list because it contains a range of grades, meaning you can start small and work your way up— literally.
But it's worth remembering that regardless of whether you boulder, top rope, or lead climb, you're accepting risk. Climbing is inherently dangerous, and it's wise to proceed with caution. Plan ahead by packing the right gear and, if you're new to outdoor climbing, opt for routes that are well within your comfort zone. These steps will help keep you and others safe.
I recommend packing lunch— perhaps something from nearby Anjou Bakery— so you can take your time up top, drinking in one of Washington's most inspiring vistas.
After spending years as a relatively fringe sport, climbing is finally getting its due. Luckily for newcomers to the hobby, Washington’s famous mountains harbor unmatched routes suitable for beginners and experts alike. Whether you’ve just mastered V2s or you’re the gym’s resident free solo veteran, Peshastin Pinnacles State Park should be on your radar. I think it may offer enthusiasts some of the best climbing in Washington. Few destinations reward your effort with views like these, and nearby Leavenworth is the perfect spot to celebrate your success.
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